A note released today by iSuppli says Apple is betting big to "guarantee availability of advanced liquid-crystal display (LCD) panels for its iPad and iPhone lines."

Specifically, iSuppli believes Apple has established agreements with LG, Sharp, and Toshiba for supply of Apple's retina display, including technologies called IPS ("in-plane switching") and LTPS ("low-temperature polysilicon.")

We have no doubt that much of Apple's focus here is for its portable gadgets, such as the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, which represent Apple's future (and a huge portion of its revenue and profits).

But might a move into the TV business also play a role in Apple's investment?

For example, IPS technology, as Apple describes on its website, makes displays "look great from almost any angle." That's a nice feature on the iMac and the iPhone. But it would make a really great selling point for an Apple television.

If Apple does eventually enter the TV industry, as many expect it will, it won't be there to compete on price -- it will compete with better software and better technology. Could this $4 billion bet be one of its first steps?